You've probably heard it said, "Write what you know." This is a valuable rule for writers. In fact, one of the key storylines for the current book I'm working on is the relationship between the protagonist, a father, and his teenage daughter. This, I know.
As of now, I can't envision myself writing a book with a mom as the primary protagonist. Why not? Well, certainly not because they wouldn't have the skills, knowledge, or excitement necessary to fill a role that would create significant intrigue. In fact, I know many mothers, both within my family and beyond, that would make excellent leading ladies for a novel. No, it is not the qualification of the role that would keep me from this endeavor.
Rather, it is the qualification of the writer. I have been the husband of my wonderful wife for 25 years. Likewise, I've observed her in the role of super-mom for nearly 21 years. Yet, I'm not sure I could say with confidence that I would be writing what I know.
I'm afraid this is where many of my author friends have me at a disadvantage. They can and certainly have written stories with dads as the protagonists, despite being moms themselves. Does that mean they are breaking the "write what you know" rule? No, it means that I am convinced that moms, and women in general, understand us men a whole lot better than the other way around.
Trust me ladies, it's not that we don't try. But some mysteries are too wonderful for mere mortals to ever fully comprehend. Maybe someday, I'll grow bold enough to attempt the Protagonist Mom role in a book. But for now, I'll have to settle for wishing all you moms out there a very happy Mother's Day!
'Till next time.
As of now, I can't envision myself writing a book with a mom as the primary protagonist. Why not? Well, certainly not because they wouldn't have the skills, knowledge, or excitement necessary to fill a role that would create significant intrigue. In fact, I know many mothers, both within my family and beyond, that would make excellent leading ladies for a novel. No, it is not the qualification of the role that would keep me from this endeavor.
Rather, it is the qualification of the writer. I have been the husband of my wonderful wife for 25 years. Likewise, I've observed her in the role of super-mom for nearly 21 years. Yet, I'm not sure I could say with confidence that I would be writing what I know.
I'm afraid this is where many of my author friends have me at a disadvantage. They can and certainly have written stories with dads as the protagonists, despite being moms themselves. Does that mean they are breaking the "write what you know" rule? No, it means that I am convinced that moms, and women in general, understand us men a whole lot better than the other way around.
Trust me ladies, it's not that we don't try. But some mysteries are too wonderful for mere mortals to ever fully comprehend. Maybe someday, I'll grow bold enough to attempt the Protagonist Mom role in a book. But for now, I'll have to settle for wishing all you moms out there a very happy Mother's Day!
'Till next time.
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